A Dazzling Example of Excellence: Talladega College’s Class of 2024 Valedictorian, Eliza Croom, Sets Sights on Medical Field
May 3, 2024
In Talladega College’s illustrious history, each graduating class leaves behind a legacy of academic achievement and excellence. Among the distinguished graduates of the Class of 2024 stands one individual whose dedication, intellect, and leadership have truly set her apart: Eliza Croom, the valedictorian of the Class of 2024.
A biology major raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, Eliza discovered her affinity for medicine at an early age after a devastating diagnosis for a close family member was revealed. “I’ve wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember. My little sister was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of one, and her doctors came up with an effective plan to put her into remission before she was two. The physicians in my family’s life have given us another chance at health.” Encouraged by the medical professionals who helped her sister and her own battles as a developing child, Croom leaned on family who instilled in her the value of education and hard work.
Despite a global pandemic looming as an incoming college freshman in 2020, Eliza approached her studies with enthusiasm and focused energy. “I was so excited to go college, so I wasn’t going to let anything stop me from being successful. [The good thing is] there were very minimal distractions since Covid limited a lot of in-person experiences. Ultimately, this allowed me to focus on my schoolwork and build confidence, and that’s how I ended up at the top of my class.”
Eliza’s journey to academic success is a testament to her unwavering determination and passion for learning. Since her freshman year, she has demonstrated a relentless commitment to academic excellence, earning top marks in her classes and immersing herself on campus to implement a wide range of initiatives and participate in extracurricular activities, including:
- 2020-2021 Freshman Class Representative
- 2020-2021 Showstopping Crimsonette
- 2021 Miss Debutante Beauty Walk Participant
- 2021 Ronald E. McNair Scholar Inductee
- 2021-2023 NAIA Competitive Dancer
- 2021-2023 Premedical Society Vice President
- 2021-2024 The Great Tornado Band Banner Girl
- 2021-2022 Presidential Honors Society
- 2022-2023 Biology Club President
- Spring 2022 Initiate of the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. & 22-23 Chapter Vice President and 23-24 Chapter President
- 2023 Alabama Alpha Chapter of Alpha Chi Honors Society
- 2023 National Science Foundation Research Experience for Undergraduates Participant
- Top 10 at the 2023 Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Pageant
- Little Miss Talladega College Founder
- Howard College of Medicine Center of Excellence Scholar
- Tornado Market Food Pantry and Resource Center founding member
- 2024 Beta Beta Beta Biological Honors Society Initiate
- Top 10 at the Miss National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame Pageant
- 2024 Research Abroad Belize for Science Participant
- 88th Miss Talladega College
- Class of 2024 Valedictorian
In addition to her academic and extracurricular pursuits, Eliza has proven herself to be a compassionate and empathetic individual, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. Her kindness and integrity have earned her the respect and admiration of her fellow classmates, like Ms. Freshman-Jadah Carter.
“Eliza’s mentorship has been invaluable to me. It has had a profound impact on me, shaping not just my professional development but also my personal growth. She’s been a steady guide, offering wisdom, encouragement, and perspective when I’ve needed it most. Through her mentorship, I’ve gained confidence in my abilities, learned to navigate complexities with grace, and discovered the importance of resilience in the face of challenges,” Carter said.
Looking ahead to the future, Eliza is filled with excitement and optimism, eager to embark on the next chapter of her life as a
Howard University College of Medicine Center of Excellence Scholar, a program aimed at helping minority students get into and matriculate more successfully through medical school. “I plan on pursuing a career as an Obstetrician/Gynecologist. I developed a love for women’s health rights and being a voice for other women. I’ve been inspired to understand more about fertility and general women’s health,” she said. Armed with the knowledge, skills, and experiences she has gained at Talladega College, she is poised to make a meaningful impact on the world and continue to inspire those around her.
As Talladega College celebrates the remarkable achievements of its Class of 2024, Eliza Croom stands as a dazzling example of excellence, leadership, and integrity. Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the transformative impact of education, reminding us all that with hard work, dedication, and a passion for learning, anything is possible.
